On March 8, 1992, a Socata TB-10 (registration N105A) operated by Central Skyport Aviation was involved in an aviation accident near Elkhart, IN. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: PROPER GLIDEPATH WAS NOT MAINTAINED AND MINIMUM DESCENT ALTITUDE WAS NOT MAINTAINED BY THE PILOT RESULTING IN COLLISION WITH TREES. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an ILS approach, the pilot momentarily lost sight of the runway due to fog and external lighting. The airplane struck trees about half a mile from the runway and came to rest in treetops. Both occupants were rescued by fire department personnel.
Flight Background
The pilot was conducting an instrument landing system (ILS) approach to runway 27. This flight was the pilot's first actual instrument flight rules (IFR) operation since receiving an IFR certificate one month prior to the incident.
Approach and Accident
After intercepting the outer marker, the pilot initiated the descent for the ILS approach. According to the pilot, he broke out of cloud cover and established visual contact with the runway. However, due to fog and external lighting conditions, he stated that he momentarily lost sight of the runway. When he redirected his attention to the instrument panel, he realized his altitude was too low. The airplane subsequently collided with trees approximately half a mile from the runway threshold.
Rescue
The airplane became stuck in the treetops. The pilot and passenger were rescued by the fire department. No information was provided regarding injuries or aircraft damage.